I've thought a lot lately about my example as a Dad. A pastor. A friend.
"Do as I say and not as a I do" is an ineffective way to lead people.

If I want my children to love Jesus, I need to love Jesus by example.
If I want students that I lead to share their faith, I need to share my faith.
If I want people to be in small groups, I need to be in a small group.

"Everything rises and falls on leadership." John Maxwell
"Leadership is action, not position. "D.H. McGannon
"Do-so is more important than say-so." Pete Seeger

People not only want to be taught but they want to emulate. Just as important as our public leadership is our private leadership of our actions.

I am growing more and more excited about Hannah coming into this world! God has taught me so much being a Dad over the past 18 months. My view of God has been shaped more by the way that I look at my son, Micah.

I love my son. He has been an incredible joy in our lives since September 4, 2012! As he grows everyday in every way, I am reminded of how precious and fast time flies!

As I think about welcoming a new baby girl into our family, I'm overwhelmed in a lot of ways. - Will I be the Dad I need to be for her? - Will she love Jesus more because of my example at home?

As the questions roll through my head, I'm reminded of God's still small voice reminding me that He is in control.

My prayer is that she experiences the grace and love of Jesus as she grows up. In fact, that is one of the main reasons we gave her the name, "Hannah."

We gave her Cassidy's middle name, "Leigh." I hope that she is just like her mother. I want her to love God and love people. I hope that her life is focused upon pouring out God's grace on others and leading them to find Jesus.